A Pet Safe Holiday Menu for Dogs

Table scraps and holiday foods for people are not good for pets. Avoid these risky foods for dogs.

The turkey is stuffed and chances are you will be too. So what will you do with all those delicious holiday meal leftovers? Although it’s tempting, don’t give in to the urge to share with Fido.

Food drippings, gravies, sauces and marinades can make seemingly healthy food, like turkey, dangerous for your dog. It’s best to give them healthy food made especially for pets. However, if you do share your holiday spread, make sure to steer clear of the items below.

Onions, garlic, scallions and chives

Why they’re bad: both raw and uncooked, these foods contain thiosulphate, a substance that can damage the red blood cells in your pet’s body; they can also cause gastrointestinal upset, breathlessness, diarrhea and vomiting.

Xylitol

Why it’s bad: this sugar substitute (found in gum, mints, candy and baked goods) can cause dangerously low blood sugar and even liver damage in dogs. It’s highly toxic and can even be deadly. It’s best not to give your dog dessert made for people; check out some of these pet-friendly bakery options instead!

Chocolate

Why it’s bad: Chocolate contains theobromine, which causes overstimulation of the heart in pets, among other issues. Baker’s chocolate, popular during the holidays, is particularly toxic. Be sure to keep all types of chocolate out of reach of dogs. For a great substitute, check out these holiday treats.

Uncooked yeast dough

Why it’s bad: it’s toxic and can cause abdominal pain, bloating, vomiting, disorientation and even depression in pets. A dog’s digestive system causes further fermentation of the alcohol found in uncooked dough, which can trigger ethanol poisoning. For a great substitute, check out these pet bakery items.

Alcohol

Why it’s bad: ethanol poisoning. Never give alcohol to a pet. Alcohol-containing beverages or food can cause toxicity, which may lead to severe health complications like respiratory depression (slowed breathing and inadequate movement of air into the lungs), cardiac arrest and even death.

Macadamia nuts

Why they’re bad: they can cause severe reactions including muscular weakness, disorientation, depression, tremors and abdominal pain. For a great substitute, check out these peanut butter treats!

Grapes and raisins

Why they’re bad: although the exact substance hasn’t been determined, they cause toxicity in dogs and even small amounts can cause major health concerns. Complications range from vomiting, diarrhea, and severe gastrointestinal upset to kidney failure. For a great substitute, try one of these Fruitables treats.

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